Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed how we get around Colorado Springs. But what happens if you’re injured in a crash involving one of these vehicles? Liability can be complex when there are multiple parties involved — especially with companies that classify their drivers as independent contractors.
If you’ve been hurt in a rideshare accident, knowing who’s responsible is a critical first step toward getting compensated for your injuries. At Schofield & Green Law, we’re personal injury lawyers specializing in rideshare accidents. Our attorneys fight for Coloradans who were injured due to driver negligence, unsafe road conditions, or inadequate insurance coverage.
Keep reading to find out who may be held liable after a rideshare accident in Colorado.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
Depending on the details of the crash, several parties could be held legally responsible:
- The Rideshare Driver: If the driver’s negligence (such as speeding or distracted driving) caused the accident, they could be personally liable.
- Another Driver: If a third-party driver hit the rideshare vehicle, they may be at fault.
- Uber or Lyft’s Insurance: If the rideshare driver was actively working (logged into the app and either en route to or with a passenger), then Uber or Lyft may provide supplemental insurance coverage.
- Multiple Parties: In some cases, fault may be shared between the rideshare driver, another motorist, or other involved entities.
Colorado follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning more than one party can be found partially responsible, and compensation may be adjusted accordingly.
Causes of Rideshare Accidents
While rideshare drivers are expected to follow the rules of the road, the nature of the job can increase the risk of certain types of accidents. Common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Constantly checking the app, navigating GPS, or messaging passengers increases crash risk.
- Fatigue: Many drivers work long or irregular hours, often juggling multiple gigs, leading to dangerous drowsy driving.
- Speeding or Reckless Driving: To complete more rides and increase earnings, some drivers may take risks behind the wheel.
- Unfamiliar Roads: Rideshare drivers frequently drive in unfamiliar areas, leading to sudden stops, wrong turns, or unsafe maneuvers.
In fact, a recent study from the University of Illinois Chicago found that one-third of rideshare drivers reported being in a crash while working. The study also highlighted that cellphone use, fatigue, and unfamiliarity with roads significantly increased crash risk.
What If You Were a Passenger?
If you were riding in an Uber or Lyft and got injured in a crash, you may be eligible for compensation through:
- The rideshare company’s insurance (if the driver was actively working).
- The at-fault driver’s insurance (if someone else caused the accident).
- Your own insurance (if you carry MedPay or uninsured motorist coverage).
Understanding which insurance applies can be tricky, which is why speaking with a personal injury attorney is highly recommended.
What about Rideshare Insurance?
All Uber and Lyft drivers are required to have auto insurance that meet Colorado’s minimum requirements. These rideshare companies also automatically apply commercial coverage to every ride, but that coverage varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.
If the driver is offline, their own personal insurance applies.
If the driver is online and available to accept rides, Uber and Lyft provide limited third-party liability coverage in case of an accident. The coverage amounts are:
- $50,000 per person
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 per accident for property damage
If the driver is actively en route to pick up passengers or currently transporting them, coverage includes:
- $1,000,000 in third-party liability coverage
- First-party coverage, including Optional Automobile Insurance Coverage, MedPay, or Personal Injury Protection
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (up to the car’s actual cash value, with a $2,500 deductible)
For more information on insurance amounts, see Uber’s and Lyft’s official insurance policy pages.
FAQ: Can I Sue Uber or Lyft?
Technically, you cannot directly sue Uber or Lyft for the actions of their drivers. This is because rideshare drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees — giving companies a layer of legal protection.
However, you can:
- File a claim against their insurance if the driver was logged into the app during the time of the crash. Uber and Lyft both carry up to $1 million in liability coverage in certain situations.
- File a personal injury lawsuit against the driver or any other at-fault party involved in the crash.
It’s also worth noting that while you can’t usually sue the companies themselves, there are exceptions, such as cases involving negligence in hiring or failure to address safety complaints.
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Injured in a Rideshare Accident in Colorado?
Navigating liability after a rideshare accident is complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you determine fault, deal with the insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, don’t wait to get the legal support you need. The sooner you take action, the stronger your case will be. Contact Schofield & Green Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation, and take the first step toward peace of mind and justice.
